JANUARY 15- JAN .21, 2024…IN KEY WEST WITH LYNDA ….

****THIS IS THE BIG ONE… THE ONE YOU HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR…. THE WATRFRONT PLAYHOUSE AQUA IDOL !!!!  You are graciously invited to this wonderful FREE -to- attend Event at Aqua Nightclub at 711 Duval St.  Starts at 6 pm….. Get  there early to secure a great seat!  Marvelous Contestants who are giving of their time and talent to help raise dollars for The Waterfront Playhouse are….JOE TRIPP….. TREY FORSYTH…. WILHELMINA LOPEZ MARTIN (MINA)… ADAM STAMPER…. MARIAH WOESSNER…. FLOYD JENKINS….. CLAIRE CAPLAN …. BAHAMA BOB LEONARD…JIM SPEAKE….. BETTY CARRAWAY…. JORDAN SOMMER….. MARIA MOUKA WALLACE…. JIMMY OLSON ….. JERRY HUGHES…. GREGORY FISHER….They also have a chance to win cash and prizes.    Our Emcee is the hilarious Laure Thibaud…. Joining me in the Judges’ Booth is the fabulous CHRISTOPHER PETERSON …Celebrity guest judge will be PATRICK NEW, the ‘NEW’ Artistic Director for the Waterfront Playhouse for Next Season!  Note that you can donate to each contestant online (whether you are there in person or not!) ….by going to the www.waterfrontplayhouse.org website and hit donate and go from there.  All CC donations are made to the Waterfront Playhouse for your contestant and are tax deductible.  Former Contestant and 2017 Fantasy Fest Queen Destiny Montgomery is  working hard at coordinating this Event and I am happily helping her as much as possible.  She is a joy to work with!!!  Looking forward to seeing you every Monday….Our dates are JAN. 15, 22,29, FEB. 5, 12, 19, 26 and the Finale on MARCH 4!!!!  DON’T PLAN ANY OTHER ACTIVITIES ON THE NEXT 8 MONDAYS….( except for dining afterward, perhaps!)
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KEY WEST WITH LYNDA!!!!!
MONDAY JAN. 15, 2024…

HAPPY JAN. 15th  BIRTHDAY TO…ERIC TEVES…. VIRGINIA BUTLER…. KARI WOLF….SOPHIA PERANTEAU …. STEVE ANDRES…. ALEXANDER  HUNT….DAVID VANDER WEHEN….KAY BRESLIN…. (Please remember… Joann Hoffman and Sheila Taylor.)
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THE AQUANETTES PERFORM SHOWS EVERY SINGLE NIGHT…. Aqua Nightclub at 711 Duval St. is the place to see the most fabulous Drag Queens….including ….FAITH…INGA …. ELLE … JESSICA… BEATRIX …… MAYA…and  EPIPHANY!!!  Shows are  Monday and Tuesday at 9 pm….and from Wednesday thru Sunday, there are two shows…at 7 pm and 9 pm.  ..Reserve at www.aquakeywest.com.  Aqua is open from noon to 2 am nightly…. drink specials… full menu… lunch specials…… call 305-294-0555…   Also at Aqua…. there is the Back Bar, the Side Bar , the Outdoor Poke Bar and Grill, and each has its own personality!!!!! And again…. we were saddened to learn about the passing of former owner, MICHAEL INGRAM, but are thrilled to welcome the new owners, Mike & John Barrett.  (And read below about new STAR at Aqua Nightclub…Christopher Peterson! 

AT THE MARRIOTT…JAN.15, 22, 29.. Rob Distasi performs from 5 to 9 pm. 

THE GARDENS HOTEL MONDAY…JAN. 15,22,29….from 5 to 7 pm it’s Mary Spear entertaining ….526 Angela St. 

AT VIVA SALOON ON MONDAYS…..Entertainment every day… 6 to 9 pm….

SCHOONER WHARF…JAN. 15, 22, 29……Raven Cooper 12- 5 pm…Joe the Show, 6:30-11 pm.   

LITTLE ROOM JAZZ CLUB ON JAN. 15…Music from 5-11 pm…. 8 pm, it’s Jazz Jam with Skipper Kripitz , Joe Dallas & Larry Smith.  821 Duval St.

BRIA ANSARA PERFORMS  ON MONDAYS, TUES. & WED.  AT BOURBON ST. PUB from 8:30- 10:30 PM. 

FRIENDS OF THE KW LIBRARY SPEAKER SERIES….. Every Wed. at 6 pm….In the Palm Garden on Fleming St…. gates open at 5:30… JAN. 15…Jonathan Escoffey  speaks on new book, IF I SURVIVE. 700 Fleming St. ……JAN. 22 it is Elise Hart Kippes……  JAN. 29… Key West Sketches.

MOVIE AT B’NAI ZION…750 United St…free movies at 7:30 pm….on JAN. 15… A SKY ABOVE A ROMAN GHETTO. 

GINGERBREAD GALLERY…JAN. 15… Presenting artist Michael Palmer…. Opening reception. On JAN. 29, featured artists are Rebecca Bennett, Janet Mueller, and Ashley Benton. 5 -8 pm…..

***LATEDA.. …. Performing in the Crystal Room at Lateda at 9 pm is … The Randy Roberts LIVE! Show ….1125 Duval St.  To check on the  schedule go to the Lateda website.  Downstairs in the Lounge is the superb 3 SUM  who perform on Thursday thru Monday at 8:30 pm. And a new act on Tues. and Wed. at 8:30 pm.   And delish food too!!!!!!

PLEASE NOTE… THE PRAYER CHAIN HAS BEEN RELOCATED TO THE ADDENDUM BELOW.   PLEASE REMEMBER ALL THOSE WHO NEED OUR PRAYERS MOST.  THANK YOU… SCROLL DOWN PLEASE. 

CHRISTOPHER PETERSON AT AQUA NIGHTCLUB!!! ….. Christopher is in Rehearsal at his exciting new Venue at The Aqua Plex… at 524 Angela St.  Formerly The Side Bar…it is NOW being transformed into “THE BIRDCAGE”…and Christopher is busy producing, directing, writing, designing, and starring in his VERY OWN Extravaganza…. Stay tuned for his Grand Opening… (I do know that he is planning a very special Tribute to the late great, Danny Weathers, former Artistic Director at the Waterfront Playhouse!!!!)

ALL WRITERS, OR ASPIRING WRITERS TAKE HEED… Maybe this is the year you will write your memoir…poetry…short story….essay..or maybe even the great American Novel !!!!!   You are invited to join the Writer’s Guild.  Meetings are the second and last Saturday of the month.. on JANUARY ON THE 13th and the 27th!!!! Meetings are in the rec room at Key West By the Sea at 2601 S. Roosevelt Blvd. from 10 am to 1 pm.  Enter by gate to the left of the flagpoles.  You will benefit from constructive criticism, help in publishing and social mingling with like-minded people of all ages.  For more info contact Joanna at 305-570-8239. 

THE DIVINE BLAKE HUNTER….One of Key West’s VERY finest will be celebrating his birthday on Jan. 17….Blake Hunter has meant the world to the Arts and to Multiple organization of  ALL kinds in Key West (and many other places too!)…giving with joy to ALL!  I ask that you take time to send Blake warm and caring birthday greetings to him at 1108 Georgia St., Key West, FL 33040.  Big thanks.

LUANN GROSSCUP’S NEW NOVEL….Local author, Luann Grosscup has written a new exciting psychological thriller guaranteed to have you on the edge of your seat!  Title is TANGO WITH THE DEVIL….and is available at amazon.com in paperback, kindle and large print.  Google to learn more about this great read! 

ANNE FRANK, WORD FROM THE SHADOWS….JAN. 29….At Tennessee Williams Theatre…8 pm….Presented by the imPerfect Dancers Co.  Get tix at www.keystix.com or call 305-295-7676.

MY BLOG ALSO AT CONCHTV….  Gail & Craig Hollenback who designed and run this Website…. are retiring.  For the next few weeks only…..You can  go  to https://www.conchtv.com/author/lynda and get my blog,  also the current birthday and anniversary lists., Our 2024 Frechette Gazette… and my picture too!!!  It has been a wonderful run and the Hollenbacks are a truly wonderful couple!  Thank YOU!

ALSO….To contact me, direct all messages to kwlynda@bellsouth.net,  I am interested in all you may have to say.  Also, if you have any information that I could use in this blog, please send it to me and I will try to  include it next time. I need ALL info sent as concisely as possible and must come to me before Sunday at the end of the weeks … as my blog goes out on MONDAYS!!!!!

CHARITY BINGO AT GREEN PARROT…Monday at 7 pm… to benefit A WORTHY CAUSE…each and every week. 

 VOTE BY MAIL….Please note that every person who wants a vote by mail ballot must request one each election cycle.    Request now for 2024 or check your vote by-mail-status at the following links.  Request a vote by mail ballot keysselections.org/Voters/vote-by-mail-Request.  

A PUN or LEXOPHILE FOR YOU…WAKING UP THIS MORNING WAS AN EYE-OPENING EXPERIENCE!
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TUESDAY, JAN. 16, 2024
HAPPY JAN 16. BIRTHDAY TO….REBECCA TOMLINSON…. MICHAEL FATICA…. JOE SHAW… DIANE STRONG …. MARY HAFENREFFER…. SALLY GALBRAITH…. (Please remember Richard Crooks and Fran Ford today.)
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SINGERS SOUGHT…The Keys Choral  is seeking singers for its spring season which began rehearsal on JAN 2…. and ends with  a spring Concert on Friday, March 22.  No need to audition. For info contact Susie Trost at 843-222-2551 or Tim Peterson at 581-445-1709.  

AT THE MARRIOTT……JAN. 16, 23, 30……..the amazing  Carmen Rodriguez and James King 5-9pm.
 
LITTLE ROOM JAZZ CLUB..GREAT entertainment from 5:00-11:00  Tues. thru Sat. only…821 Duval St. … 8 pm, It’s Bluesday Tuesday with Larry Baeder. 

VIRGILIOS ON JAN. 9….. 8 pm with Skipper Kripitz….With Chris Thomas, Vince…. and Tim Mayer….

DEBRA & PATRICK AT VIRGILIO’S ..TUESDAY, JAN. 30…8 TO 11 PM with Skipper and Company!!!!!  YAYAYAY!!!!

AT SCHOONER WHARF……JAN 16..Gary Hempsey, Noon to 5 pm!!!  6:30-11  Jesse Wagner…..

COMEDY KEY WEST.. 218 Whitehead St…..Go to www.comedykeywest.com to get tix and see the monthly lineup…. Or call 305-985-7370.

THE GARDENS HOTEL TUESDAY…..JAN 16,23, 30…… Gregory James….entertaining from 5 to 7 pm in the Atrium.  526 Angela St. 

BEN HARRSION AT KEY WEST THEATER, JAN. 16, FEB. 9 & 28…Legendary and wonderful Folk Singer….Ben Harrison,  will perform songs in the Back Stage Listening Room at KW Theater…512 Eaton St….7 pm…. $25 tix… will perform songs from all his many Musicals which highlight the distinct history of Key West and the people who live and have lived here.  Go to www.thekeywesttheater.com.

AT THE STUDIOS… JAN. 16 AND 17….. Vance Gilbert & Susan Werner…old town new folk duo….On Jan. 16…7 pm in Helmerich Theater…. Jan. 17… 6 pm at Hugh’s View….Go to www.tskw.org for tix and information.

RED BARN THEATRE PRESENTS POTUS ON JAN. 30-FEB. 24….’POTUS: Or, Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive.’….This comedy is about 7 brilliant & beleaguered women who risk life and sanity to keep POTUS out of trouble in this gleefully filthy and outrageously funny farce! Directed by Joy Hawkins… Starring….great cast of talented Ladies includes…… George diBraud… Jessica Miano Kruel…. Lauren Thompson…. Susannah Wells…. Annie Miners… Fritzie Estimond…. and Lynne Casamayor.  Tix on sale  NOW  at www.redbarntheatre.com or call the box office at  305-296-9911.

WONDERFUL OLD TOWN HOUSE FOR RENT….Available  January, March April, August and October….This home on Grinnell St.  is listed with a Realty  but if interested you can also call Scott at 305-394-7060 for more details and info.
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WEDNESDAY, JAN 17,  2024

HAPPY JAN. 17 BIRTHDAY TO ….BLAKE HUNTER…. KAREN LOCKWOOD…. JOHN MCDONALD…. PAIGE DILLOW…. RON STADNIK…. SCOTT HALL….. XAVIER MCKNIGHT…. (Please remember Mabel Paul and Linda Patchett.)
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CHRISTINE MILD PERFORMS AT THE RED BARN …JAN. 17-20 ONLY!!!   Christine has a superb voice!!!!… She will be singing songs made famous by the Iconic Women of Country Music… The Judds…Shania…Tanya… Loretta… Dolly … Patsy….. Reba…. Trisha…. Tammy and Martina!!!  The great band is Jim Rice, Gary McDonald, Gary Rivenson and Mike Emerson.  Get tix now at www.redbarntheatre.com or call 305-296-9911.    The Red Barn is at 319 Duval St. behind the Women’s Club!

LIBBY YORK CD ……Classy Libby York’s new CD, DreamLand, was named among the Best of 2023 in Down Beat Magazine…. and it received RAVE reviews in the Jan. 2024 issue of NYC Jazz Record!  

LITTLE ROOM JAZZ CLUB….WEDNESDAYS….JAN 17….. AT 5:00-11:00 …8 PM,It’s Skipper,  Camille Toler, Larry Smith and Tim Mayer!!!!

SCHOONER WHARF…..JAN.17. 24 31.   … Tony Baltimore from noon to 5 pm…Raven Cooper from 6:30 to 11 pm. 

 AT THE MARRIOTT ..JAN. 17…..5 to 9 PM……. R.B. Tolar….entertains.

****DAVE BOOTLE AT MANGOES….WEDNESDAY THRU SATURDAY EVERY SINGLE WEEK…… Enjoy this marvelous entertainer… one of Key West’s true GEMS….. and dance the night away… You are SURE to have the best time ever!  9 pm…till Midnight. ….DON’T MISS!!!!!!…..Always a party with Dave!!!!!

ROC ISLAND FESTIVAL…JAN. 17-20…. At Coffee Butler Amphitheater…. An array of different performers each night…. Ram’s Head ROCK Event…. Passes on sale NOW…. go to www.thekeywesttheater.com or call 305-615-3168.  

“SINGIN IN THE RAIN” OPENS IN PREVIEW AT WATERFRONT PLAYHOUSE!!  JAN. 24 …. This really BIG MUSICAL will be Fabulous with a capital F….an all stars Jordan Thomas Burnett… Jillian Todd… Riley Vogel and a cast of 18…directed by Tom Thayer with amazing sets by Michael Boyer.  I predict this show will be a huge sellout…so get tix NOW at 305-294-5015, or at www.waterfrontplayhouse.org or at www.keystix.com.  8 pm….TICKETS ARE FLYING OUT THE BOX OFFICE!!!!

THE KEY WEST LIBRARY….EVERY WEDNESDAY… Hosts a free movie each Wed. at 2 pm.  700 Fleming St.   Note that on Jan. 27 will be the BARBIE MOVIE…..

AT THE GARDENS HOTEL.. WEDNESDAYS….JAN. 17, 24….The fab JIMMY OLSON IS BACK  till the end of February!!!!  entertains from 5 to 7 pm at The Gardens…You can also see him on Mondays at 6 pm as he is one of our super Aqua Idol Contestants!!!!!

THE FRINGE PRESENTS….’FIVE LESBIANS EATING A QUICHE’….thru JAN. 20….Directed by Glenda Donovan…. stars Caroline Taylor, Diane May, Donna Stabile, Samantha Laskey, and Jessica Newman.  7 pm… director is Glenda Donovan….Wed. thru Saturday. at the Key West Armory at 600 White St.  Get tix at www.keystix.com or call 305-295-7676.  

THE MIDTOWN MEN AT TENNESSEE WILLIAMS THEATRE… JAN. 24…. 8 pm…These are some of  the  original singers from the smash hit  ‘Jersey Boys’ who NEVER fail to please….You will be rocking in your seats and will have a blast.  Get tix at www.keystix.com or call 305-295-7676.

RESIDENTS INVITED TO ATTEND WORKSHOP ON ‘THE FUTURE OF DUVAL STREET’… JAN. 31… 5-7 PM at the San Carlos Institute at 516 Duval St.  All invited and your input is important.   Duval St. is a beloved and famous Street and needs revitalization and it is time to make this the Street that we KNOW it can be!  Together let us try to visualize the best for this Street on our Island! Bring thoughts and ideas and let’s work together.
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THURSDAY, JAN. 18, 2024

HAPPY JAN. 18 BIRTHDAY TO…JENNIFER CORNELL…. ERIC DEAN DAVIS …. CAROL FRAC…. LENNY BORNINO … (Please remember….Helene Greenberg and… Tim Wegman.)
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FARMER’S MARKET… THURSDAYS……2 to 7 pm every Thursday….. … Produce, beverages, music, seafood, apparel, cheeses, gifts, art, books, etc…. fun…. At Truman Waterfront.

VIP SERIES AT TENNESSEE WILLIAMS THEATRE…JAN. 18….7 PM……Marvelous KW Resident, LUCY BARKER and her daughter, Diana Tapper will discuss the survival of Lucy’s father, Jack Kowal through eight concentration camps… a story documented by Steven Spielberg’s Shoah Foundation.  Theirs is a compelling, emotional, moving,  and riveting story that will have you enthralled.  Admission is $5.  All invited to attend.

****’SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN’ GRAND OPENING ON THURSDAY, JAN. 25!!!!!  Get ready for the time of your life!!!!  This is One of the truly ALL-TIME GREAT Musicals…. live onstage at the Waterfront Playhouse! Directed by Tom Thayer…set design by Michael Boyer who has AMAZING SURPRISES IN STORE…. (Spoiler Alert….Miracle Man Michael Boyer WILL make it Rain onstage!!!!)  The brilliant cast, stars…JORDAN THOMAS BURNETT …JILLIAN TODD… RILEY VOGEL…BELLE JAMPOL…KATHY RUSS… JOHN McDONALD… MATHIAS MALOFF… DOMINIC PAOLLILO… ZACH FRANCHINI… RAY WEST… JOHN SWAN… VICTORIA DAVIS… HANNAH MELLO… CASSIDY TIMMS…. COURTNEY SLEET… LACY HOBBS… BARBARA MUNDY… PHINEAS HASKELL AND CANON HASKELL. (Another spoiler alert…. Look for Christopher Peterson and Tony Konrath to make cameo appearances!)  Musical Director is Roberta Jacyshyn… CAROLYN COOPER IS THE CHOREOGRAPHER…lighting by Kim Hansen…  film sequences by Marky Pierson….& costumes by Maine Music Festival.  You will NOT want to miss this super grand show…. Get tix NOW at www.waterfrontplayhouse.org…or at www.keystix.com… or at 305-294-5015.  THIS SHOW RUNS TUES THRU SAT. TILL FEB. 17!!!!  You will want to take ALL your house guests!!!!  THE ASSORTMENT MEN’S STORE (Thank You Claude Reams & Joe Alan Carr!) is sponsoring this show… and MIKE BENNER is hosting the Opening Night Party catered by First Flight!!!!

STATE OF THE ART SOUND SYSTEM AT WATERFRONT PLAYHOUSE…. Big thanks to KATE REGAN & KEN SILVERMAN for gifting the Playhouse with the BEST sound system in town…. and Big Thanks to MATHEW RAWLS FOR DOING THE INSTALLATION!!!!!

SCHOONER WHARF…JAN.  18…noon to 5 pm, Andy Wescott….6:30-11 pm, Nick Brownell…. 

BIL KRAUSS IN TOWN EACH THURS, JAN. 18, 25….Hysterical & Awesome musician performs from 6-9 pm at Fat Tuesdays

LITTLE ROOM JAZZ CLUB……..THURSDAY, JAN 18 … Entertainment FROM 5- 11 PM  from Tues. thru Saturday……AT 8 PM, It’s  with Skipper Kripitz and fab guest star, the SAXY, TIM MAYER… plus Larry Smith and Claire Caplan, vocals!!!!!!!  Music at its best. 821 Duval St. 

AT THE GARDENS HOTEL EVERY THURSDAY….JAN.  18, 25…. Paul Warthen From 5 to 7 pm,…

 AT THE MARRIOTT JAN. 18,25…. the multi-talented, Carmen Rodriguez performs with James King from 5-8 PM. 

******JIAYIN SHEN & ERIC DYER, aka DUO KINETICA…JANUARY 18TH ONLY…..THIS WILL BE A NIGHT to REMEMBER!!!!   Piano Concert at the Studios, 533 Eaton St…..at 8 pm..  Jiayin  met Eric Dyer when they were both in residency at The Studios in 2014.  Since then she has become internationally known and is a sought-after concert pianist.  Eric is a pioneering moving-image artist….and together they will perform a mind-boggling complex, beautiful and unforgettable concert!   We had the great pleasure of meeting Jia-Jia as she is affectionately called, when she was here, and you may recall that she  thrilled Key West by performing a sold-out Salon Concert at our home on Caroline St.    Get tix at www.TSKW.org.  A discount of 15% off tix will be given to anyone reading this if you use the code PIANO  (all Caps).

AL ROMANO PERFORMS EVERY THURSDAY….AT The Celtic Conch Public House, 528 Front St..Note …. Al packs ’em in and sings his heart out….He truly is our Key West Frank Sinatra!!!!!  5 to 8 pm….New spot…. good food….Happy Hour from 5-7 pm.   (Note that Al was one of the Waterfront Playhouse’s Aqua Idol!)

SOUTHERNMOST CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT….JAN. 18 AND MARCH 21….  This marvelous group will present their final ever two concerts on Jan. 18 and March 21.  Both concerts take place in the Nave at St. Paul’s Church at 7 pm.  There will be no concert in Feb.  I will let you know when you can purchase tix for either of these last 2 concerts.

KEY WEST SKETCHES…JAN. 18 at Tropic Cinema…1416 Eaton St…Benefits the Tropic & the Literary Seminar…5 pm…drinks & nibbles in the lobby….5:50, head to the Carper Theater where Meg Cabot, George Cooper, Peyton Evans, Arlo Haskell, John Leslie, Carey Winfrey, and Nan Klingener will read their ‘sketches’ that talk about what makes KW such a unique and special place.  $75 per person Get tix at tropiccinema.com. 

ERIN MCKENNA PRESENTS ONE-WOMAN SHOW…Titled BOMBSHELLS…. Key West’s ‘Bombshell’ Erin McKenna will present this show on Jan. 25, 26, 27 and Feb. 1, 2 and 3 only.  At 8 pm on all eves but Feb. 2.  Presented at WILLIAMS HALL…at 729 Fleming St.  Directed by Jeremy Zoma, this production is filled with wit and insight while it exposes the diverse facets of modern womanhood, that offers a compelling journey that is both humorous and poignant.  The talented and lovely Erin will play 5 distinct characters and it promises to be a delightful night of entertainment.  Get tix at www.keystix,com.  $40 general admission.  On FEB. 2 only, the show starts at 6:30…. and afterward there is a three course dinner served by Martha Hubbard upstairs at Williams Hall.  For this show with dinner go to williamshall.org for tickets.

BACKYARD MUSIC WITH DEBRA & PATRICK… JAN. 25…. This is a special fundraiser for the Fringe Theater…. 6 pm at the gorgeous home of KATE MIANO……Get tix NOW and enjoy an Open Bar and delish hors d’oeuvres…and divine music by the BEST…. DEBRA & PATRICK!!!!  TIX ON SALE NOW!

DESIGNING EYES….. JAN. 25-28… at 600 White St…The Armory….Another Fringe fundraiser…..You will see unique and fab eyeglasses galore!!!!  Bring your Rx. An optical boutique….Authorized…. and a portion of your purchase goes to support the Fringe!  For more info go to www.fringetheater.org.   

DEBRA DEAN & PATRICK LAWLER AT LITTLE ROOM JAZZ CLUB ON FEB. 1…8 – 11 pm….So thrilled to have this dynamic duo back ‘HOME’ in Key West!!!!  821 Duval St. 

MARK CALENDARS FOR PRESIDENTIAL FAMILIES WEEKEND… FEB. 15 THRU MON. FEB. 19….Held on grounds of Little White House…… For info and tix go to www.ytumanlittlewhitehouse.org/foundation/events/.   Lots of wonderful events are planned, including cocktail parties, forums, and the acclaimed stage production ‘Give ‘Em Hell,  Harry” with Clifton Truman Daniels as his grandfather Harry S. Truman on Feb. 18.

BEREAVEMENT MEETINGS EVERY THURS…….If you are working through the grief process of losing someone dear, there is help for you.  Join this caring Support Group at 7:15 pm at the Klaus-Murphy Center at the Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea.  You are not alone….  God bless Velma Christian for her special ministry,_**

FOLLOW THE RABBIT BAR ….2023 Aqua Idol Finalist, Jordan Upchurch is a big part of Key West’s newest Speakeasy Bar, Follow the Rabbit working on PR.  It is a burlesque experience focusing on high end craft cocktails and a unique audience experience… Terrific performers but lots is ‘hush hush’, which adds to the mystique and allure…… makes for an intriguing evening for sure…OPEN THURS TO SATURDAY…. BUT CLOSED THIS WEEK….Tix are $49 per person and includes 2 drinks from Drink Me  Menu, bar snacks, and guaranteed seating for 2 hours plus Show!!!!  Get tix in advance at www.followtherabbitbar.com.   The secret venue is hidden in Old Town.  You get the password and address 24 hours prior to your visit.   All sounds rather exciting!

THANKFUL ON THURSDAY….I am grateful for many things and mostly for so many people who have touched my life in unique and special ways of late…. Thanks to….. Rob Frechette …..  Carolyn Cooper…. Melissa Lang…..Vera Schiff…. Lyn Bensenkaboff….Jim Argoudelis & Dan Ward …. Cherry Schnepf….. Debra & Patrick …..Nancy Koeller……Mike Barrett…..Murphy Davis…..Danny at Azur…..Kate Miano……Christopher Peterson ….. Amy Bondurant…Jimmy Harcup …..Sally Stevens and Rob Zadkovich……… Suzanne Washburn…… Suzanne Rentschler……. Dave Bootle ……. the Choir at St. Mary Star of the Sea…..Suzanne Moore…..Donna & Kevin Gallagher.. … Noreen Collins ……Patrick Hayes  …Bobby Nesbitt ….Susan & Stuart Kaufman…Mike Barrett …..Bunnie Smith…Matthew Rawls ……Leigh Pujado ……Kate Regan & Ken Silverman …..The Cast & Crew of Singin in the Rain….Peggy Schwing…….Jimmy Olson …The Cleveland Browns…….Destiny Montgomery  ….Erin McKenna……All those praying for those in need … ….Jessica Miano-Kruel  …..Debra & Patrick. ….Bruce  Moore ….Kristin LoGerfo and Peter Glicklich  ….Tom Thayer…. Maggie McCollester ……..Sandy Higgs & Ed Swift. …..Dee & Tom Rybicki…. ….Jerry Galeana …….JT Thompson ….Ruth Reiter…. Marion Strauss…. ….Penny Leto…… Craig and Gail Hollenback ….Johnny & Maribell Maschal ….Chris Elwell …..Fr. John Baker  …Cliff Gregoire…. …. Mike Benner …..All the new Aqua Idol Contestants…….Nand Pandey…Jimmy Olson. ……Patrick New …. Phillip at NY Times……Michael Boyer … Maria Zito Kaufman ….Carol Orzech.. …and MOST of all my dearest husband BOB!!!!
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FRIDAY, JAN. 19, 2024….

HAPPY JAN. 19  BIRTHDAY TO….KATHY HAYMAKER….. ROGER HARMON …. NIKOLA  CZERNY…. MICHELLE DRAVIS…. HUCKLEBERRY AUGUST WILDE STRANOVSKY BROWN….

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THE GARDENS HOTEL EVERY FRIDAY…JAN. 19,26…..Gregory James entertains .In the Atrium…. From 5 to 7 pm, …  526 Angela St.   

DEBRA & PATRICK ARE BACK PERFORMING AT LITTLE ROOM JAZZ CLUB ON JAN. 26 AND 27 AND ON FEB. 1….THIS WONDERFUL DUO WHO USED TO PERFORM ALL SEASON IN KEY WEST IS BACK FOR A LIMITED TIME… They will be at Little Room at 8 pm to 11 pm…821 Duval St.  If you are like us you will follow them from venue to venue.

JERRY DOWNS PERFORMS ON JAN 26….The superb and lovable Jerry, a former Aqua Idol Winner…..will entertain At 6-8 pm at The VFW on North Roosevelt…. Open to the public and good food too!  I bet those great Island Boys will be on hand too!!!!  Fish Special every Friday!

***TERRI WHITE PERFORMS ON FRIDAY AT PAPA PILAR’S RUM DISTILLERY… usually 4 to 7pm.  Located at the corner of Greene and Simonton Sts. AT 201 Simonton St.   Call 305-414-8754 to make sure Terri is there that night. (Do you know that Terri White was a force on the Broadway stage, starring in Follies, Finian’s Rainbow, Barnum, Nunsense, Ain’t Misbehavin’, and others.  She is wonderful!)

AT THE MARRIOTT …FRIDAY..JAN. 19……R.B. Tolar entertains.

LITTLE WHITE HOUSE LITERARY SEMINAR….6 PM…. At Truman Little White House…. with Skipper, Melody, Tim and Jeff.

THE GARDENS HOTEL…. FRIDAY., JAN.  19, 26…. John Hobbins is at the piano from 5 to 7 pm.

SCHOONER WHARF…JAN. 19…noon to 5 pm, Tony Baltimore…. 6:30-11 pm, the Scallywagz  Band… with Skippo, Channing, Jamie and Bubb.

LITTLE ROOM JAZZ CLUB…..FRIDAY……  LITTLE ROOM..5 to 11 PM…….  821 Duval St….Smooth jazz at this top night spot!

AN EVE WITH NICK NORMAN….JAN. 19…At Williams Hall, 6:30 pm.  Get tix at www.keystix.com.  

PUPPY PALS AT TENNESSEE WILLIAMS THEATRE….JAN. 26…. Bring the kiddies, young and old….for this delightful show at 7 pm.  Get tix at www.keystix.com or call 305-295-7676.

AT THE STUDIOS JAN. 26…’Between 2 Palms’ Conversation with author Cheryl Lu-Lein Tan.  6 pm in Helmerich Theater.  Get tix at www.tskw.org or call 305-294-0458. 533 Eaton St.

COFFEEMILL’S DANCE COLLECTIVE, FEB. 3…. Get tix now for this always wonderful show at The Tennessee Williams Theatre…These are the serious Dancers… up-and-comers…. who have their hearts set on perhaps taking  Dance to another level.  It is amazing how many talented young dancers we have, and how lucky we are to have The CoffeeMill, headed by Penny Leto…. and the marvelous and nurturing Instructors!  Go to www.keystix.com for tix.  

TENNESSEE WMS. POETRY & SHORT STORY CONTESTS….Submit original works for the 2024 Contests held in March.  There is no specific theme for submissions but your works MUST have a reference to Tennessee or his family or his characters, or actors who played roles in his movies and plays.  Cost is $10 per submission and it is limited to one poem and or one short story.  Submissions will be accepted until March 10.  For details contact Key West Art & Historical society at 305-295-6616. 

KW GARDEN SOCIETY IS SEEKING BOARD MEMBERS….The KW Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden is recruiting 5 seats for its Board of Directors.  Applications are now open for consideration wit a three year term starting Jan. 2024.  All are asked to share your expertise or experience.  Send letter of interest to Key West Botanical Garden, 5210 College Rd., Key West, FL 33040 or email hr@keywest.garden. Visit the website at www.keywest.garden.
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SATURDAY, JAN. 20,  2024 

HAPPY JAN. 20  BIRTHDAY TO…CLAYTON BEATTIE…. NANCY BOYCE….JUDGE PEARY FOWLER… COREEN ADAMANY ….GINA KARR… STEVEN SELKA…. NANCY NORRIS …. STACY ORTIZ…. DAVE FRONHEISER … STEVE RICHARDSON…. TORI GREGG….LINDA CURTIS…. (Please remember Gladys Rybicki…and …Joy Peck.)
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NATIVE PLANT SALE, JAN. 20….9am to Noon, at the KW Tropical Forest & Botanic Garden.  At 1 pm is speaker, Kristie Killam, biologist & retired park ranger who will talk about Discovering Photography to connect with Art & Nature, in the Toppino Nature Chapel…. on Stock Island, 5210 College Rd.

LITTLE ROOM ON SATURDAYS….. 5:00-11 PM pm….  7 pm, it’s Skipper Kripitz with Claire Caplan vocals… plus Tim Mayer, sax and Joe Dallas.  Great Jazz GUARANTEED!!!!  821 Duval St.

VIVA SALOON……… 8 -11 pm….Skipper Kripitz  and  Friends….   

AT THE MARRIOTT…SAT, JAN. 20, 27….Talented Larry Smith entertains from 5-9 pm. 

SCHOONER WHARF… JAN. 20…..noon to 5 pm, Nick Brownell…. The Scallywagz Band, 6:30-11 pm…

EPIPHANY SINGS LIVE AT AQUAPLEX….4 TO 6 PM….504 Angela St. aka Calen Tomaszewski!!!!

THE GARDENS HOTEL…EVERY SATURDAY …..JAN. 20, 27….From 5 to 7 pm, Bobby Green entertains in the Atrium at The Gardens.  Always FREE to attend. 

KEY WEST THEATER….JAN. 20….Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band….. 8 pm.

DEBRA & PATRICK AT LITTLE ROOM ON JAN. 27….8 PM AT 821 DUVAL ST.  COME AND WELCOME THEM HOME TO KW!!!  (Debra & Patrick are beloved in KW…. For years they had a regular gig at Lateda where half the town would end up to enjoy this great duo!)

BILL MELCHIOR PERFORMS AT THE AMERICAN LEGION JAN. 27, 6 to 9 PM…by  the Golf Course on Stock Island!  Also on FEB. 10….AND 24. (Bill is one of the WP great Aqua Idol Winners!)

HOLD THE DATE…FEB. 3…. 17th ANNUAL ROCK N’ ROAST…..At the grounds of The Basilica of St. Mary SOS…..1010 Windsor Lane…. HUGE SILENT ACTION…. ENTERTAINMENT ALL DAY…. CUBAN STYLE ROAST PORK DINNER…..Note The Island Boys plus Miss Betty will perform for this Event
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SUNDAY, JAN. 21, 2024

HAPPY JAN. 21 BIRTHDAY TO…SEBRINA ALFONSO…. CHARLIE STRAUSS…. LYDIA WATERLOO….. OMARI OMDRI….
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BRIA ANSARA ENTERTAINS EVERY SUNDAY AT FOUR MARLINS AT THE REACH …. FROM 10 AM TO 2 PM!!!! 

IMPROMTU CONCERTS JAN 21.. Jeremy Denk will perform…at St. Paul’s Church on Duval St.  4 pm….get tix at door…. or go to www.keywestimpromptu.org for info about subscriptions etc.  7. 

MANGOES AT 8-11 PM..JAN 21, 28…Kari and Jack Wolf perform!!! 

SCHOONER WHARF…. JAN. 21… noon to 5 pm…MYLO…. 6:30-11 pm Gabriel Wright…., 6:30-11 pm.

VIVA SALOON ON SUNDAYS…..Entertainment…… 8 TO 11 PM…. AT 903 Duval St. 

TERRI WHITE SINGS AT JAZZ IN THE GARDENS….JAN. 21…..5-7:00pm….The WONDERFUL Terri White sings…5 TO 7:30 PM…….  ON FEBRUARY 4,  IT’S DEBRA & PATRICK AND FRIENDS….. AT 5-7:00 PM. 526 Angela St.
 
AT THE MARRIOTT .. JAN 21, 28….Mr. Cool,  Rob DiStasi entertains, from 5 to 9 pm…..

***PARADISE BIG BAND CONCERT ON JAN. 21…..8 PM at Tennessee Williams Theatre at the College….This is a Concert that we try NEVER to miss.  Joe Dallas heads this amazing group of fabulous local musicians who give their ALL to present an incredible evening of musical entertainment.  There are always great vocalists too.  Get tix at www.keystix.com or call 305-295-7676.  Note that Darcy Cooke and Carmen Rodriguez are featured singers… doesn’t get much better… plus other featured musicians are Joe Dallas, Tim Mayer, and Larry Smith!!!!

ORCHID SOCIETY MEETING ON JAN. 21….1 PM…. AT  1100 Atlantic Blvd….Speaker is Mac Rivenbark.  All invited. 

KEY WEST THEATER, JAN. 21…. 8 PM….Andrew McMahon entertains….. 512 Eaton St.    

DEBRA & PATRICK AT SALUTE ON JAN. 28…… It will be divine to have these two fabulous ones back in Key West!!!!

MANGOES DRUNKEN DRAG BRUNCH.. SUNDAYS. NEXT ONE IS FEB. 11… Talented Jimmy Harcup is the super duper HOST!!!!  Doors open at 11…showtime is promptly at 12:30 pm…. Reservations needed at http://www.eventbrite.com.  Tix are presently $50 but the popularity of this event will make the prices go higher I am sure!   This amount includes bottomless Mimosas!  A fun way to spend a Sunday afternoon in Key West!!!  The remainder of the Brunch Dates this season are:  March 10 & 31….April 21….May 12…June 9…. July 7….Oct. 20….Nov. 17….Dec. 15. 

2024 CONCH REPUBLIC POLAR BEAR PLUNGE!   FEB. 11… AT Higgs Beach at Noon…Benefit for Samuel’s House.

***A SPECIAL GIG TO SPREAD JOY AT POINCIANA GARDENS…I am still reaching out to singers, musicians and entertainers who may want to help in spreading cheer and joy to the residents of the Poinciana Gardens Assisted Care Housing at 1664 Dunlop in Key West.  On the Third floor of the Gardens, are Residents who are not very mobile. If you are interested in performing for approximately 45 minute to an hour during the 4 to 6 pm time slot, please contact Sandy Higgs at 305-797-6992 and please leave a message if she does not answer with your contact info.  Her email is higgswest@aol.com.  You can also contact Ed Swift’s office at 305-294-4142 and leave a message with Hope, Ed’s assistant. This is a paying job.  Note that the divine BOBBY NESBITT volunteers his time and talent every week and raves about how much fun it is and that it’s his favorite thing to do in town!!!!  Maybe you can help out once a week …maybe once per month….they are flexible… Let them know and also if you need access to a piano or not… or if you bring your own instrument, etc.   

CHECK OUT THE WEBSITES OF THE VARIOUS CLUBS IN TOWN TO FIND OUT THEIR MUSIC SCHEDULES….. JUST GOOGLE OR CHECK OUT THE SCHEDULES PROVIDED BY THE KEYS CITIZEN AND OTHER PUBLICATIONS. 

PLEASE SEND ME ANYTHING YOU NEED TO BE PROMOTED….. AND … I will do my best to include in future blogs!  Need it by next Sunday afternoon!!!!
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LOVE TO YOU…. AND REMEMBER…….   Love will break your heart… but it’s worth it.      
Lynda 

PS  I recommend double checking some of the venues to make sure the person you want to see is actually there the night you intend to go.  Schedules often are subject to change.
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THE ADDENDUM!!!!…..AND HERE’S MORE INFORMATION: 

BIRTHDAY/ANNIVERSARY LISTS….If you would like to be included in the Birthday and Anniversary Lists that I send out every month, please let me know your month and day by sending that info to me at kwlynda@bellsouth.net.  There are special perks to being on the lists!!!!  One of the perks is having your name in KONK Life on the day of your Birthday!!! 

PRAYER CHAIN……… Please include prayers for……..Jean Fucillo ….Donna Barnett…..Michael Pelkey… Rick Worth…. Janet Pattillo and daughter Kathy and Family …..Fred and Judi Stevens ……..Shirley Irby…….. Mark Huyett…. Julie Hanson ….Rosi Ware… Noreen Collins ….Lonnie Hensley …….Donna Gallagher …… Len & Helen Stevens…..Shanna Frechette….Jack Flood….Tanya Leto…….Julia Davis…. Johnny Pollizi ……Bill Schmock ………Carey Moore ….Jo Gerenger  …. John Isaksen …… Helen Barkut….Maryann Barth …Bella Rettenwander  . … Cheryl Walchli …..Terri White ….…John Padget  …Marta White …. Anne McKee  …Dee Dee and Richard Duecker …….Jennifer O’Lear.. … Paul Politte….Pat West ……J. S. Traut…. Chuck Selph. ….those struggling with addiction……Anne Marie Adreani… for all those we have lost during this year and their surviving friends and families…. …..…All those dealing with Illness, loss, and despair … Remember, there are many reasons that we pray…not just because people are ill…. I do believe that when we all send prayers and good vibes to those in need, those prayers mystically meet and surround those being prayed for.  Sometimes we pray for miracles and the impossible….sometimes we pray to just cope with the results of what happens to those we are praying for.  Sometimes we pray for strength to go on and to accept…sometimes we pray for thanksgiving.  We are in this thing called ‘Life’ together ….and we all have power within us to help our fellow man.  Bless you for remembering our loved ones….Prayer changes things!  Let me know of anyone who should be added to this list. 

IN MEMORIAM…..2023 was a year of great loss…. Let us remember the following whom we loved and lost during this past year….  Genevieve Isaksen….Robert Price….Bob Moats… Cameron Murray… Nancy Thiel…. Marilyn Larkin…Michael Ingram… Liz Moody… Nathan Hohman…Jim Pojman…Helene Greenberg…Ross Neagley… Doug Mayberry… Judy Trem… Raveh Underwood… Norm Maltby… Joanne Maltby…George Peranteau… Larraine Tacke… Larry Wood… Lynn Williams… Ron Klug…Tom Vetter… Tom Corcoran… Tom Hambright… John Seamon… Steve Ness… Robert Cardenas Sr. …Bruce York… Bob Gries… Barbara Robinson… Al Sachs … Lee Appelbaum…Carol Burns… Daniel Carper… Dennis Piscopink Sr …Kenneth Primer… Dick Moody… Joy Rodriguez… Diane Epiopoulis …Patricia Lee Herce… Garrett Hughes… Diane Jensen…. Rev. Steve Braddock …Diamond Dave Bevens … Ralph Morrow …Bryan Domagalski… Rachel Ligon…Arlene Rau Mitchell … Jimmy Buffett…Noni Sanchez…Tom Piezer… Flora Barrosa Rued… Sandra Groudle… Roosevelt Sands… Patricia Tufts… Bud Brewer… Richard Matson… Avis Collins Robinson… Al McConagha… Marilyn Vander Veen… Ted Lesiak… Adele Tresten,,, Clark Worthington…Peggy Brown…Dawn de Boer… Jessica Radesic…. They were loved and will be missed.  

DID YOU KNOW…. that Advanced Urgent Care will be the First Urgent Care to offer MRI in the Marathon 13365 location…charge is $575 without contrast and $675 with contrast…no additional Radiology fees….(compare to $3,000 charge at Monroe County hospitals.  They are the only MRI site doing Breast MRI’s in Monroe County.  You must have an order from a Healthcare provider who MUST get the preauthorization.  For more info go to www.urgentcarefloridakeys.com or call 305-294-0011.    

THE VOCAL LAB WITH JESSICA WACHS..(former Aqua Idol contestant)……This is open to all aspiring singers, singers seeking new depth, and teaches confidence building and communication skills.   To find out more email Jess at Rumbleabq@gmail.com. Rumble Co. is providing all entertainment at the KW Food and Wine Fest this year which is selling tix now.  The theme is Everything Spanish!  Ole!

GREAT GALLERIES IN KEY WEST…. There are nearly 30 fabulous Art Galleries in Key West?  All are unique and wonderful in their own ways…. Some of My Very favorites are ….Coco & Salem….Harrison Gallery…Gallery On Greene…. Gingerbread Square….. Key West Art Center & Gallery…. The Studios….Art @830…. Salt….Stone Soup …JAG…and Seven Artists!!!   Go to their websites to find out about shows, events, and openings at these fine galleries.

*****WATERFRONT PLAYHOUSE ANNOUNCES NEW 2023-24 SEASON…..  This 85th Anniversary Season is another great one!  Hope you have joined and have become a Member….. We NEED your support !!!!   The shows coming up are…..SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN…. THE MUSICAL… Jan. 24…..MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS, March 13-April 6…. TEN BLOCKS ON THE CAMINO REAL, March 17…. TRUNK MATERIAL on March 31….LOST IN YONKERS….. Great actors have already been cast!!!  Exciting stuff!!!!  

TENNESSEE WILLIAMS ANNOUNCES 2023-24 SEASON….  On April 19, Executive Managing Artistic Director, Matthew Rawls, presented the exciting new Season at the Theatre….The Encore shows left are…The Midtown Men…..’Little Women’ (Musical)…. Neil Berg’s 50 Years of Rock n Roll part 4…and Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo.  In addition, other announced shows are Stars of the NY City Ballet(Jan 5).. Gladys Knight… Illusionist, Mike Super… Puppy Pals LIVE!…Drum Tao, One Night of Queen….Bobby in the Lobby…Paradise Big Band, The South FLA Symphony and More to Come.  If you are interested in becoming part of the Producer’s Circle please contact Matt at the theatre.

NEED A GOOD DENTIST?… I am here to give my dentist, DR. CARTER WEBER, a plug.  He has a brand spanking new state-of-the-art office that has recently opened at 1710 N. Roosevelt Blvd..  Phone is 305-294-9999.  Excellent (and handsome) Dentist…. top notch equipment…and a wonderful and welcoming staff ….Roni Hall…… Open Tuesday thru Friday from 7:30 AM to 3 PM…. Website is www.southernmostsmiles.com.

BIRTHDAY/LISTS….If you would like to be included in the Birthday and Anniversary Lists that I out every month, please let me know your month and day by sending that info to me at kwlynda@bellsouth.net.  There are special perks to being on the lists!!!!  One of the perks is having your name in KONK Life on the day of your Birthday!!! 

MAJ JOHNSON TEACHES WATERCOLOR CLASSES…. once monthly at The Old Stone Church Coffeehouse.  She charges $20. per class and the profits go to charity.  For more info call or text her at 305-587-8455 or email her at maryanne.johnson@westcare.com.  Next class is April 28 I hear…call now. 

LONNIE HENSLEY STILL NEEDS YOUR PRAYERS AND SUPPORT…. Lonnie, ….operates the great Classic Car Automotive Shop on Stock Island….. suffered a severely fractured skull and multiple contusions on Feb. 12… injuries so severe he was airlifted to Jackson Memorial where he had a section of his skull removed and has been in a coma and a dreamlike state since then.  He is in a financial crisis and needs your help and support.  Google Lonnie Hensley gofundme to help.  Or if you would like to help directly, you can make checks payable to LAST KEY REALTY Att: Sharon Santry and mail or drop off at 825 Duval St. Key West, FL 33040.   Let us all rally around Lonnie….. He is now residing at his home on Stock Island.   He told Bob that hse mostly concerned with his poor eyesight right now.  You cansend cards and messages to him there or at his Shop at 5324 3rd Ave. Stock Island, FL 33040 and his staff will see that he gets your mail… or to the Santry’s address above.  Many continued Prayers are requested… and please do count your blessings.

SUPPORT SOS………Many Monroe County residents are living below the poverty line.  SOS (Star of the Sea) Kitchens have long been providing food for those in need.   Go to website at www.stmarykeywest.com or call 305-294-2772.

FRIENDS OF THE KW LIBRARY…Go to www.friendsofthekeywestlibrary.org to join or renew your membership.  (Thanks to Roberta, Nancy, Megan and all those who are so dedicated to this wonderful institution!)

THE BIRTHDAY AND ANNIVERSARY LISTS…….. Please let me know if you would like me to forward you these lists….. Simply send me a request at kwlynda@bellsouth.net and I will send you this month’s complete Personality Description plus all those I know who are celebrating birthdays and anniversaries during this special time of year!!!  Also, let me know if you want to be added to it .. You can also see it by going to https://www.conchtv.com/author/lynda… and then scroll down.

THE 2024 FRECHETTE GAZETTE!!!!  …If you have not received a copy of this and would like to, please send me an email at kwlynda@bellsouth.net and I will send it on to you>

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF THE FLORIDA KEYS…. Contact Kel Bedard at 305-809-4994 (office) or his cell at 985-791-4447…or email him at kel@cffk.org or the website at www.VolunteerKeys.com.  The FLA Keys Volunteer Center is at 300 Southard St., Suite 201, KW.

THE STUDIOS GATHERINGS AT HUGH’S VIEW….The Studios is sponsoring these GLOW eves.    Cash bar available.  For more info go to www.tskw.org.  The GLOW Hours are 6-8 pm on Mondays and Tues.  FREE with advance registration.  533 Eaton St. 

THE TROPIC CINEMA AT 416 EATON ST…. For info on movie schedules  go to http://www.tropiccinema.com.   Phone is 305-434-0974.  Go online to reserve your times.   
TROPIC CINEMA SEEKS VOLUNTEERS….. www.tropiccinema.com.  Training is provided.  ‘Payment’ is free movie passes and popcorn for each shift worked.  

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR REEF RELIEF….For info call 305-294-3100. 

STAR OF THE SEA OUTREACH MISSION NEEDS VOLUNTEERS….To help with the food pantry on Stock Island….This mission serves hundreds of the community’s needy operating Mon-Fri.  Call Donna at 305-407-5967 for info.

BOB FRECHETTE=FABULOUS REALTOR IN TOWN!!!!…..Contact Bob at 305-304-2584!  Email him at rfrechette@bellsouth.net.  Honest, Loyal, Fair, and Adorable too!!!  He will have only have YOUR best interests at heart.   

SHAL SEEKS VOLUNTEERS…Southernmost Homeless Assistance League has begun serving an evening meal each day at the homeless shelter with food from the Soup Kitchen….Volunteers are needed to help.  For info call John Miller at 502-876-5092.

TENNESSEE WILLIAMS EXHIBIT:…. .513 Truman Ave.   This wonderful Museum is under the auspices of the Key West Art & Historical Society with founder, Dennis Beaver as its curator….Visitors and Locals are invited to tour this preserved and showcased collection of historic, archival objects that promote the importance of Williams’s legacy and offers the largest collection of his memorabilia and artifacts available to the public.   Open daily from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm…. Admission: Adults $7. … Children under 6 Free…. KWAHS Members: Free… For more info call 305-204-4527. Big Thanks to Dennis Beaver and Bert Whitt for their great efforts to make this Museum world class!

KW TROPICAL FOREST & BOTANIC GARDEN, NEEDS VOLUNTEERS….To volunteer please call 305-296-1504.  

801 CLUB…….Famous Drag Shows are at 801 Duval St… every night at 9 or 11 pm.  Book Online….. www.801.bar or call 305-923-9296.  The amazing and internationally known Sushi runs the show with amazing Drag Queens with names like Puddin’, Deja, Mulysa, Marilyn, Racquel, Kylie, Ma Evans, etc.

TAKE STOCK IN CHILDREN ORG. SEEKS VOLUNTEERS…..This marvelous, award winning scholarship program mentoring group is looking for giving souls to help mentor 50 some qualified students from lower income families ….They cannot be admitted unless a volunteer steps forward.  It takes less than an hour each week.  Call Chuck Licis, program coordinator at 305-394-7974 or e-mail him at chuck.licis@keysschools.com.  Kudo to John Padget for his years of dedication to this worthy cause.  He is an inspiration!

THE WILLIAM WELCH LEGACY….Though Bill is no longer with us,  his beloved sister, Sherrey Welch, is determined to keep Bill’s art and legacy alive through the new website, at www.williamwelchcollection.com.   Please forward this info to anyone who may be interested in Bill’s Artwork retrieved from Nantucket, Key West and France. 

CUSTOM HOUSE & LIGHTHOUSE MUSEUMS ARE SEEKING VOLUNTEERS…If you have a few hours to offer as a docent, archives asst., exhibit builder, or event volunteer, please offer your services!

*** THE CAPRICORN PERSONALITY…DEC. 22 TO JAN. 20 ***

      Capricorns are terrific company and are known for their wonderful sense of humor.  They are also the perfect person to turn to in time of any crisis.  Anyone who has enjoyed a good laugh with a Capricorn will want to come back for more.  One of a Cap’s greatest strengths is learning from experience.   They know how to turn a bad mistake into a valuable lesson.  And that is important, as it is a rare Capricorn who goes through life unscathed.  Most have their crosses to bear, but they usually grit their teeth and get on with it.  This endurance and sticking power stays with them through life.  Capricorns do have a tendency to be a tad pessimistic…seeing the glass half empty rather than half full.  They often have a feeling that something awful is just waiting to happen, and if their fear comes true, they can become quite depressed.  They are often fearful about the future and they need sympathetic listeners so they can unburden themselves.  Reputation is very important to Capricorns.  They want to be seen in a good light at all times by everyone.  They often dress quite formally, as though they would let themselves down if they wear anything too casual.  They tend to wear blacks and grays rather than bright colors.  Another Capricorn bonus is that they never seem to age.  Other signs will age, but the reverse seems to happen to a Capricorn.  In fact, they seem to get younger right before your eyes.  They mellow, learn to relax, and by the time of old age, they can make teenagers look positively boring!

In love, Caps always want to give a good impression and seem in control.  On the surface they may appear to be calm and collected but they aren’t nearly as emotionally unruffled as they seem.  Deep down they are extremely shy and vulnerable.  Their feelings are easily hurt, and they will distance themselves emotionally from people as a form of protection.  Caps are not noted for their demonstrative affections and they are very shy about expressing their feelings.  The thought of rejection is appalling to them.  Thus they shy away from scenes and close relationships, as they do not want to get hurt.  Though Caps can be quite solitary creatures, they benefit from being in a loving relationship.  Caps have a very traditional view of long-term relationships, believing that the man is the breadwinner and the woman should stay and take care of the house.  Nevertheless, despite all of these issues, they can be hot stuff in the boudoir.  The best signs for a Capricorn are Aries, Taurus, Cancer, and Capricorn!!!!

In career the Capricorn shines!  They strive to be taken seriously by the world and their job is a way to prove themselves..and they devote lots of time to it.  Life is often a struggle for a Cap until at least the 30^th birthday….when things become easier and their careers begin to soar.  They are quite ambitious and harbor secret plans to go right to the top.  They are a valuable member of any work team…they can be relied on as they have a strong sense of duty….they may be chained to the desk long after everyone else has gone home….and they are often Workaholics!  Career paths they find appealing are big business, dentistry, medical field, civil service, and government work.  Even though it may be lonely at the top, they will manage beautifully.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR SPECIAL CAPRICORN FRIENDS AND FAMILY MEMBERS!!!

12/22…Scott Wilson……Pat Burge…Melody Moore…Andy Weimer…..Kelly Castellanos… (Please remember Bob Decker.)

12/23…Dave Bootle…Deanna DeAngelis.…Suzanne Peranteau…Meda Bahlke… (Please remember Linda Russin.)

12/24…Barry Cuda…Evalena Worthington …..Michael Spaziani …..Ronnie Carruthers …..Michael Philip …..Sr. Jane Silk… (Please remember…. Leslie Boatwright…. Nidia Fuentes Borders and James Auker.)

12/25…Chris Lippa…Bill Belobraidich……Bill Porter…Emil Imbro……Eugene Flanagan ….. David Rustic…..(Please remember Jimmy Buffet today.)

12/26……..Richard Watherwax…Alissa Russin…Simone Bart…(Please remember Lincoln Borchik.)

12/27…Skipper Kripitz…Ruth Cahoon…Rodger Stuart Davis…..(Remember Robin Deck and Terry Muir.)

12/28…Fr. John Baker…Jeff Johnson…Leigh Pujado…..Bernard Sledz…Kelsey Wilson Lakeman…Lou Hernandez…Bob Perlow… Kelly Farrel …Dawn King…

12/29…Kitty Clements…Dan Cocco…Patti Ross…Larry Potoczak…

12/30…..Nauni Baillou….Jan Whitney…Zoe Valentine Zimring…. (Please remember Tom Vetter … and Peggy Oppanheimer.)

12/31…Bob Badgerow…Gail Lima…Kim Romano…Joe Tripp…..Chris Stone…..Leda Andrews…..Michael Citro…Melissa Tausche…Daniel Margil….

1/1…..Kip Larson…Russ Scavelli …Brian Glassburg ….Kristen Wilson ….Phyllis Gagner….Rinka N. Pandey ….Gayle Foster ..Jim Pignatori ……Bruce Burkhardt… …. Jim Clark….Ryan Gregoire….John Whedon …(Please remember Raveh Underwood….. Chuck Ballish and Bruce Hollering.)

1/2…. June Hudson…Martha Barnes…Stephen Sagman…..Chris Rehm…Mira Negron…. Eva Limbert …..Jimmy Sydenstricker…Nelson Fuentes…(Please remember Diane Eliopoulis.)

1/3…..Jean Carper…Howard Livingston……David Herzog…..Dr. Mark Whiteside …. Carol Monaghan …Mary Beth Koerwer…Michael Blumenthal…..(Please remember Genevieve Isaksen…. And …..David Carper.)

1/4…..Cliff Sawyer …..Keith Lapp…Kimball Ingram …. Patricia Neyra …..Chris Higgins…Clarence Gladyszewski….

1/5…..Trish Manley….. Barbara Scerbo … Michael Munoz…Karen Ryan… Kelly Schmotzer…. (Please remember Millie Kapela.)

1/6…Cyndy Livingston…Helen Harrison…Michael Roth…Jack Behmke……Ginger Boncek ….Mindy Duecker…Emily Domski Reuther ….(Please remember Patrick  Junior Winters….Paul Hilson…. Ray Fogg Sr…..… and Norm Dobbs.)

1/7….Anne Fisher-Wood…Lara Fox…Jodell Roberts…Lisa Elena Monda…..Larry Ketron …..Jules Moodley …(Please remember Frank Gren and Barbara Robinson.)

1/8…. Anthony Scalera……John Hammond….Maureen Ryan….Barbara Ruper ….Marissa Fowls ….(Please remember Milly Ashmore…Bonnie Bajko…. and Elvis Presely.)

1/9… Tevis Wernicoff…..…..(Please remember Neal Hartman … and Stuart Woods.)

1/10…..Michael Boyer……..Barbara Crespo…..Greg Policastro…Mary Lou Hoover…Mary Piszker…Bruce Paterson …..Rob Rey …..(Please remember Mary Jo DaSilva and George Maurer…)

1/11…..Nancy Campbell ….Pamela Kostmayer…..Agnes Varis… Alex Hall….Jeffrey Schmitt ….(Please remember…..Ed Knight and Kathy Cawley…)

1/12…..Mary Grusin…Lynne Vantriglia…George Beshire …..Luis Febo….Chuck Beneway….(Please remember Dan Holloran.)

1/13……King Carlos Home…Jim Wallace…Devon Reimers…..Kristie  Reilly…(Please remember Bob Arnold.)

1/14…Linda Beach…Michel Appellis…Jessica Geide… Jason Borchik … Kimberly Chase….

1/15…..Kari Daley Wolf…..Steve Andres…Eric Teves…Alexander Hunt… Virginia Butler …. David Van Der Wehen …..Sophia Peranteau …Kay Breslin…(Please remember Joann Hoffman…and Sheila Taylor.)

1/16…Rebecca Tomlinson…Michael Fatica……Mary Haffenreffer …..Sally Galbraith…Joe Shaw…Diane Strong..(Please remember Richard Crooks and Fran Ford.)

1/17…Blake Hunter…John McDonald….Xavier McKnight…..Karen Lockwood…..Scott Hall…..Ron Stadnik …..Paige Dillow …..(Please remember Mabel Paul…and…Linda Patchett.)

1/18….Jennifer Cornell……Eric Dean Davis…Carol Blaha Frac… Lenny Bornino …..(Please remember Tim Wegmen… and Helene Greenberg.)

1/19…Kathy Haymaker…Nikola Czerny…Michelle Dravis…Roger Harmon …..Huckleberry August Wilde Stranovsky Brown..

1/20….Clayton Beattie…Stacy Ortiz…Gina Karr… Linda Curtis…Stephen Selka……Peary Fowler…..Coreen Adamany.. ….Dave Fronheiser …..Steve Richardson …Nancy Boyce…Nancy Norris….(Take time to remember Gladys Rybicki and Joy Peck. )

HAPPY CAPRICORN ANNIVERSARY TO….

12/22…… Jerry Galeana & Steve De Fer

12/24….Bobby Nesbitt & Michael Mulligan…

12/27…Nancy & Javier Lopez…Marion & Charlie Strauss… Deanna & Bill Frew….

12/28…George & Linda Beach

12/29…..Keith & Redza Dempster……Janet & Charlie Bengel…

12/30… Kris & Bob Pabian…

12/31……..Terri & Phil Wilson… Scott Burau & Eric Teves….

1/2…Margaret & Ken Domanski….David & Irene Eyer

1/3……Lee & Richard Perry

1/5…..Karen & Vince Taporowski….

1/8… Jean & Joe Thornton

1/10… Christopher & Liv Shultz

1/11…..Roberta DePiero & Reef Perkins…Teresa & Jim Wallace…Mark Buczak & Jon Grimm.

1/12….Virginia & Taylor Doebler

1/14….Bob Pracher & Jan Gebhart….Julie & George Wallace….

If you are one of those Capricorns, please let me know if any of the above description pertains to you in any way.  If you receive my blog and are not on these lists, please send me your info to kwlynda@bellsouth.net, and I will gladly add you.  We send love and best wishes to all celebrating their birthdays and anniversaries during this time period.

Love to you,
Lynda

****************** THE 2023 FRECHETTE GAZETTE    ******************

GREETING FROM SUNNY KEY WEST FLORIDA!!!! 

In 2022 we made some major Home Changes in our life….selling our beloved Caroline St. home in KW and buying a Townhouse there…and also purchasing an historic Arts & Crafts home on Chippewa Lake.   We began work on it, Sept. of 2022.  You recall that I referred to it as ‘The Ruins’ because of the condition of the place…saying it would take many months to restore/remodel.  Truism!  In fact….. we are still not  ‘In’ the house…our furnishings & boxes were delivered on Oct. 17…too late to get everything in place & settled in.  So we decided that since it was getting beastly cold in Ohio (It snowed on Halloween!), it was time to head south to our townhouse at 47 Seaside South Ct., Key West, FL 33040….and wait until NEXT Spring to finish the move.  The GREAT news is that we LOVE the house, at 5 Bungalow Bay Blvd., Chippewa Lake, Ohio 44215.  The Lake Views in every season are gorgeous!  Groetz Builders, did a masterful job & it went from ‘The Ruins’ to…Voila!..The Chateau de La Rose!!!  The cabinetry was  beautifully & amazingly crafted by Tom Groetz!  All I did was draw pictures and explain what we wanted and he made it happen!  Tom’s son Gary did a sensational job of orchestrating this entire project. We literally took the house down to the studs….new heating, cooling, plumbing, electrical, roof…new floors & restoration of the existing old oak floors… new insulation… stuccoing of the house, all new paint job, gutters…new entryway in front and back of house, with new entry to the basement…new terrace..all new windows.…and stone walkways….New Garage and driveway…waterproofing of the basement …We took two bedrooms down & converted them to one Master & two separate  full baths for Bob and Me.  We converted the former front entry to a Powder Room…We put a coffered ceiling in the Dining room..Had all three fireplaces  readied for use…. We took four little rooms and converted them into one great kitchen, reminiscent of the Kitchen we had on Caroline St., complete with Red Riding Hood Cupboard ….Upstairs, we added a full bath to the large front  bedroom, and redid the other full bath up.  We took our two sunrooms off the living and dining room and raised the 9 foot ceilings to Cathedral Style… All these things were done, while still keeping  the Old World Arts & Crafts charm & feeling…. and actually adding more!  We also removed the decrepit guest house on the premises & now we have an actual designated entry to the house….new outdoor lighting…& a complete new Security System.  By now you can realize why all this has taken so long.  Thankfully we were able to reside in dear Rose Cottage during this process!  Next spring there will be more decisions and moving to be made when we decide what all from Rose Cottage will be moved to The Chateau along with major landscaping!  In the meantime, we are in Key West enjoying lovely Dec. weather & getting our place decorated for Christmas!  Life is GOOD!

CHRISTMAS 2022…AND THE START OF 2023!

We returned from Chippewa Lake in Nov. of 2022….had to put our Townhouse back together, as we moved our ‘stuff’ in the previous June but did not arrange furniture or open boxes…All that awaited us when we returned. Glad that we had a surprisingly easy time adjusting to the townhouse after being at the house on Caroline for 24 years.  It took a full seven months to finally get everything put together, arranged, organized, pictures hanging, etc.  There are still things we want to do, but nothing major…and after all that we accomplished during the summer….. it is nice not to not be in an upheaval here right now.  We welcomed the New Year of 2023 indoors as we both got Covid right after Christmas. Thank goodness we took Paxlovid and we were not laid up for a lengthy time.  

THE FABULOUS WATERFRONT PLAYHOUSE!!!

We are both still on the Board of this wonderful Key West Theater & another great season is upon us.  Right now they are presenting ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ and it is terrific…& it happily stars good friend, Bruce Moore as Orin the Dentist, who plays it to the hilt!  Next up is the musical, “Singin’ in the Rain’!!!!  In 2023 I headed Aqua Idol, the major fundraiser for the Playhouse, for my 12^th season…and our super 17 vocalists helped raise nearly $55,000 in eight weeks! (Congrats to the 2023 Winner, Jessica Miano-Kruel!)  We will be presenting another Idol starting Jan. 15, 2024 through March 5….every Monday at Aqua Nightclub at 6 pm!!!!  Also, after a summer off, I plan to resume doing my blog, in the near future.

SUMMER AT CHIPPEWA LAKE

Besides the all-consuming work with the restoration of the Chateau….we had a lovely summer.  I didn’t get to play as much tennis as usual but we have a nice group of ladies who are always so welcoming when I return!  Also… hardly played any Pickleball… hopefully Next season!  I welcomed some great family members and friends to my July 20 Birthday Dinner at The Oaks….and it was especially great to have our ‘kids’, Rob and Melissa, along with all our nephews and nieces together for this event….and great fun to have out-of-towners, Billy Cartledge, Bunnie Smith, and Bruce Moore surprise me by showing up!

ANNUAL NYC ANNIVERSARY  TRIP 

On Aug. 18 while shopping, my wallet was stolen from my purse.  Within a half hour of realizing it was missing, the thief tried using three of my credit cards at a nearby store.  Thankfully we were called by the banks asking if I had made these purchases and all new cards were issued.  The dicey thing was that we were flying to NYC on Aug. 22, and my Fla. Driver License was in that wallet.  Fearing I would have major problems when checking in at the airport, I had to get some ID’s together including a temp license, a photo of my license, a police report, bills with my ID, an expired passport, and several other ways to identify me.  I must have looked harmless… Everyone was sympathetic, and all my worries were for naught.  Staying at the Iroquois Hotel on 44^th as we always do, we were welcomed back by the staff.  All shows were WONDERFUL!!!! We saw “Some Like it Hot’, ‘Goodnight Oscar’(our fave),  ‘A Joyful Noise’,  ‘The Cottage’ and an off-Broadway show.  We also got to see long-time friends, Pat West, Kristin LoGerfo and fiancé, Peter Glicklich, George Sanders, Shawn Curran, and Paul Smith.  Two small world stories…. When we arrived at the theatre to see ‘Some Like it Hot,’ we heard someone call our names …loudly… ‘Lynda and Bob Frechette are in the House’…it was Tom Terpening, who used to live in KW and happened to be ushering at the theatre.  And, at ‘The Cottage’… after we were ushered to our seats, who should appear but Eric Cole & Joe McMurray..also former Key Westers now living in NYC.  We had a special visit with them during intermission…both have appeared on the Waterfront Playhouse stage many time.  I also want to mention our fave breakfast spot in NYC, which is The Red Flame Diner at 67 W. 44 St.   The staff there have become like Family and they  welcome us back with open arms year after year!  Thanks to owner John Kastanos, his son, Nick…and our fave server, Maria Herera!!!!

 OTHER VERY SPECIAL 2023 MEMORIES…..

On Sept. 17 we had a lovely Frechette Sibling Reunion with Bob’s sisters, Mary Peranteau, Sue (Eileen) Frechette, her husband Ed Gutfreund, and Bob’s brother, Mark Frechette and his wife Shanna.  We met in Columbus in German Village and it was a wonderful reunion.  Very sadly, youngest sibling, Rosemary, was not there as she had passed away from COVID early in the epidemic.  Also we got to connect with my Cleveland tennis partner, Pat Burge, now living in Columbus. And we took some time to return to my old Rooming house at 65 E. 13 Ave. at OSU!  What memories that brought back of our early days of dating so long ago.. and the great lifelong friends we made there, particularly Noreen Collins and Diane Hohman.  On Sept. 22, we attended my High School Class Reunion and it is always glorious to reunite with my dear classmates!  The older we get the more precious our friends ‘from the beginning’ mean!

IN MEMORIAM

Join us in honoring the memory of those we have loved and lost during the year.  They are …Bob Moats …Bob Price…Cameron Murray…Nancy Thiel…Marilyn Larkin…Michael Ingram…Jim Pojman ….Liz Moody …Nathan Hohman….Helene Greenberg …Ross Neagley…Douglas Mayberry….Judy Trem …Raveh Underwood….Norm Maltby …Joanne Maltby…George Bert Peranteau… Larraine Tacke …Larry Wood …Lynn Williams … Ron Klug …Tom Vetter …Tom Corcoran … Tom Hambright …John Seamon … Steve Ness… Robert Cardenas Sr …Bruce York …Bob Gries…. Barbara Robinson… Al Sachs …Lee Appelbaum …Carol Burns …Daniel Carper… Dennis Piscopink Sr… Ken Primer … Joy Rodriguez…Diane Epiopoulis… Patricia Lee Herce… Garrett Hughes ….Diane Jensen….Rev. Steve Braddock …Diamond Dave Bevens … Ralph Morrow …Bryan Domagalski ….Rachel Ligon…Arlene Rau Mitchell…Jimmy Buffett…. Noni Sanchez …Tom Piezer … Flora Barroso Rued… Sandra Groudle… Roosevelt Sands… Patricia Tufts… Bud Brewer…..Richard Matson ….Avis Collins Robinson …Al McConagha …Marilyn Vander Veen…Ted Lesiak …Adele K. Tresten ….Clark Worthington….Rest in Peace…and thanks for the Memories.

 CURTAIN CALL

As time passes, we become more aware of how fragile and fleeting life is.  We don’t take anything for granted….especially YOU, who are reading this right now.  Thank you for being a very special part of our Life, for your kindness and for remembering us during the year.  The holidays bring us close, so we hope to hear from you…please send updates and pictures and all those good things, because we really truly care!  Note that Bob, still a Realtor, can be reached at 305-304-2584, and Me at 305-393-6273.  Our emails are rfrechette@bellsouth.net …. kwlynda@bellsouth.net.  Please enjoy every single moment of this joyous season and may 2024 be a sublime year for you and yours! Can’t wait to hear from YOU!